Chase Daniel officially released by Eagles

The Philadelphia Eagles officially released veteran backup quarterback Chase Daniel on Monday evening, according to an official announcement from the team.

This news was expected. The Eagles signed old flame Nick Foles to a two-year contract earlier on Monday. Shortly after the Foles deal became official, ESPN reported Daniel requested a release since he believes he’s a starter in the NFL. The Eagles clearly obliged.

“Chase’s professionalism and intelligence were valuable assets to our quarterback room,” said executive vice president of football operations Howier Roseman in a statement. “His veteran leadership was incredibly helpful in Carson [Wentz’s] development as a rookie, and his familiarity with Coach [Doug] Pederson’s offense was instrumental in stalling our system last season.”

“After a healthy discussion with Chase, we both felt like it was best to move forward in a different direction as circumstances have changed since he originally signed. We greatly appreciate Chase’s time here and wish him well as he continues his football career.”

Philadelphia’s release of Daniel only saves the team $1 million in cap space. Trading him would have been more ideal because it would have saved $6 million instantly, but there was clearly no market for him. It is worth noting Daniel’s deal with the Eagles included offset language, which means Philadelphia will get some more cap space when Daniel signs with a new team.

The Eagles signed Daniel to a three-year, $21 million contract last offseason worth $12 million. He was originally set to be the backup behind Sam Bradford, but when the Eagles traded Bradford away they elevated Wentz and sat Daniel behind him all season instead.

Daniel may have brought some unseen value to the team, but it’s hard to argue he was worth the big deal he signed.

Daniel attempted exactly one pass last season for a 16-yard completion. He ends his Eagles career with a 118.7 passer rating.